Convertible 2-in-1 Laptop - Analysis and Buying Guide - 2023
If you need a versatile machine for your work, art or leisure, a 2-in-1 laptop is a good way to go. These laptops have touch screens that can be folded to turn the computer into a tablet.
Not only can this be useful for work that requires a more intuitive interface, but it can also offer a way to change the way you work or display a presentation.
The 2-in-1 laptop has grown in popularity in recent years and is available in a variety of sizes and price points. There are no 2-in-1 laptops from Apple yet, but models with Windows 10 and ChromeOS are widely available.
Key Considerations
A 2-in-1 laptop can be an investment, and before you make a purchase, you should have a clear vision of what your computer will be primarily used for and where you will use it. Some computers will outperform others, but they will also generally cost more. If you don't need the processing power, a cheap Chromebook might be perfect. But if you need a computer with excellent resolution and a precise touch screen to work on art or design, you'll need a different kind of machine.
Operating system
Everyone who is familiar with computers has a preferred operating system. With 2-in-1 laptops, your options are somewhat limited.
Windows 10 comes on most 2-in-1 laptops and offers a wide selection of apps that most users will be familiar with. This is the operating system for artists, programmers and gamers.
Settings
Almost all 2-in-1 laptops are capable of folding so that the keyboard is on the back of the touch screen, mimicking a tablet. But that... is not all they can do.
Some models can convert to “tent mode,” propping upright so the edges of the screen and keyboard rest on a surface, creating an angled display that's easy to use for tasks like drawing. Some models may work in a similar way, allowing the keyboard to rest face down on the surface while the touchscreen remains slightly angled.
Other models may have a rotating hinge, which allows the keyboard to be hidden when using tablet mode.
The most versatile configuration is a detachable mode, which allows you to actually use the screen as a tablet, leaving the keyboard behind. This typically results in decreased battery life and processing power, but for a true laptop-to-tablet experience, it's a great feature to have.
Take note of the technical specifications of the detachable models. Some of them are laptops that turn into tablets, which are better for professional use, while others are tablets that turn into laptops, which work better for leisure use or basic tasks like typing and browsing.
Screen Size and Resolution
Just like traditional laptops, 2-in-1 laptops offer resolutions up to 4K (or 3480 x 2160). Depending on your work, 4K resolution may be a must. But if your laptop is primarily used for emailing, browsing, and typing, the extra pixels may not be worth the extra cost.
Screen sizes range from 11.6 to 15.6 inches, and a larger screen means a larger laptop. There's no right answer here... it comes down to preference, portability, and what you'll be using your computer for. In general, the real estate extra display commands a higher price.
Performance
The two biggest determinants of a computer's performance are the CPU, which acts as the "brain" of the computer, and the RAM, which allows it to perform multiple tasks. As with any computer, the speed of a 2-in-1 will suffer if either of these two falls short.
For CPUs, most 2-in-1 laptops run Intel Core i5 or i7 processors. While these aren't as powerful as the i9, they will meet the needs of most.
RAM memory ranges from 4 to 16 GB. If you don't plan on doing any kind of heavy lifting, 4GB should be fine and will save you quite a bit out of the box. For more intensive work like video editing or programming, you may need up to 16GB.
Storage
Depending on your job, a considerable amount of storage may be a necessity. But with so many forms of cloud storage available, that number may matter less to you, especially if you have a Chromebook and can store up to 100GB of files on Google Drive.
Most 2-in-1 laptops offer anywhere from 64GB to 2TB of storage. There are two main types of storage: hard disk drives (HDDs) and solid-state drives (SSDs). SSD storage has a higher price tag, but because it has no moving parts, it allows your computer to run significantly faster. To get the most out of RAM and CPU, an SSD is the best option.
Battery Duration
Almost all 2-in-1 laptops have lithium-ion batteries, which tend to charge quickly and hold a charge for a long time without use.
Most batteries will last 6-15 hours, although this depends on factors such as screen brightness and the tasks you're performing, as using Photoshop will drain the battery much faster than Microsoft Word.
If you regularly work on the go, a reliable battery can be a lifesaver. But if you work primarily at your desk, a short battery life may make little difference to you.
Characteristic
Once you know which operating system is right for you and how fast your laptop-turned-tablet needs to be, you need to consider additional features like overall form factor and security features.
Size and weight
The size of your laptop is largely determined by the dimensions of the screen, but thickness and weight will vary.
With an impressive battery can come an impressive weight, which can take its toll if you take your laptop with you. Despite their flip-and-touch screen designs, some 2-in-1s are just as slim as traditional ones.
Security
Protecting your data is important, and you may find that a password is not enough.
Some 2-in-1 laptops include added security features that are fast, intuitive, and reliable.
Fingerprint scanners provide a quick way to access your computer and keep unwanted users out.
Facial recognition works in a similar way, identifying your face with the built-in camera. This may seem a bit strange at first, but it is extremely accurate and secure.
Cloud-based storage solutions and services like Google Drive may not offer these security features, which may affect you if you buy a Chromebook. However, two-step verification is a reliable way to access important accounts and documents.
Camera and Microphone
If video calls are a regular part of your job, you need to make sure that your 2-in-1 laptop's camera and microphone are reliable and of good quality.
Most cameras are between two and eight megapixels, and some models may have front-facing and rear-facing cameras.
Ports and Connectivity
You won't find a 2-in-1 laptop without WiFi capability, but some may offer a better connection than others. Most models will use a 2.4GHz connection, which is reliable but only moderately fast, but dual-band models can use both 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi connections, allowing for faster download and upload speeds.
Bluetooth is another standard feature, but ports may vary. Most models will have USB 3.0 ports, but that's not always the case — something to keep in mind if you regularly use flash drives to transfer data. USB-C and Thunderbolt drives can be found in higher-end models and offer fast charging and data transfer.
Optical Pencil
While almost any 2-in-1 laptop will have a stylus-enabled touchscreen, few models include styluses. There are two main types of styles that you should look for.
A passive pencil works like an extension of your finger. The tip interacts with the screen for things like clicking and dragging, and there's no need to lug around the pen.
An active pen is more precise and feels like a pencil or pen in your hand. It has a rechargeable battery and communicates with your laptop, usually via Bluetooth. Active styles include additional features like moving the cursor when hovering over the screen and distinguishing between pen and palm.
Tips
Consider buying a case for your 2-in-1 laptop, and always make sure the screen is protected. Storing your laptop in tablet mode may damage the screen or keyboard.
A matte or privacy screen can improve the touch screen's appearance and prevent scratches.
If you opt for a detachable model, always store your keyboard in a safe place so it doesn't get lost, damaged, or stolen.
Expect 2-in-1 laptops to weigh considerably more than most tablets.
Other Products We Consider
The 2-in-1 laptop market is on the rise, and there are a handful of models aside from our top five that are worth investigating. The Microsoft Surface Book 2 stands out as one of the best detachable models with a useful tablet mode and impressive battery life. It is more expensive, but it is a quality machine with excellent performance. The Acer Switch Alpha 12 is a relatively affordable detachable laptop that includes a stylus. For its price, it's a powerful machine that's portable and convenient.
FAQ
Que. Does the keyboard turn off when a 2-in-1 laptop is in tablet mode?
Ans. With models that tip over backwards, yes. If you want to keep the keyboard on, some laptops have workarounds.
Que. Are all 2-in-1 laptops compatible with active pens?
Ans. No. If it is an accessory you are considering purchasing, make sure that the notebook you purchase is not only compatible but also reliable for use with an active stylus.
Que. How long should a 2-in-1 laptop last?
Ans. Like a traditional laptop, a 2-in-1 model should last about four years. However, this is a rapidly advancing area, and progress is likely to be made in the next decade to improve things like battery life and form factor.
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